In this chapter the author constructs an alternate way of teaching about Haitian womanhood which creates a more nuanced and developed understanding of the many lives Haitian women may lead. The Kreyol saying “fanm se poto mitan” is well known in Haiti to mean that women are the central pillar that uphold society, they are indispensable, strong and resilient. However, Jean-Charles argues that the poto mitan is a restrictive representation of Haitian women that expresses the burdens that they must take on as the unwavering pillar.

This chapter seeks to introduce a different kind of pedagogic volume that contextualizes Haiti outside of the stereotypes created by the West and that have beleaguered it for more than a century. The authors thus provide new ways of teaching about Haiti that portrays a more complex portrait of the country that challenges the neocolonial, imperialist, racist and simplistic discourses that are so prevalent in everyday discussions.